Transmigration of Souls and Concept of Preta – Hindu Philosophy

Let’s understand the transmigration of souls and the concept of Preta. Hinduism is based on two fundamental doctrines, viz., the law of Karma and the law of transmigration. Death is a necessary and passing phenomenon. As one move from one home to another, the soul passes from one body to another to gain experiences.

After death, the soul that passes from the body is termed ‘Preta’, on its onward journey to the Beyond. The soul hovers about its initial and familiar places for ten days. It is in the form of a ghost for ten days. As “linga sharira”, or subtle body, it carries the impressions of the past and the features of the body and moves on towards its journey. Transmigration of Souls and Concept of Preta.

The spirit is fully embodied by the eleventh day. Transmigration of Souls and Concept of Preta

The spirit is fully embodied by the eleventh day. It starts on its journey towards the heavenly abode. It takes about a year to reach lord Yama, the god of death. The trail is beset with challenges, distress and problems. The person who has done wicked deeds suffers most. The son of the deceased can perform oblations and sacrifices to remove the issues and make the journey easy and comfortable. Death is definite for those who are born, and birth is unavoidable for the dead person. This is inevitable. Therefore, one shouldn’t grieve over it. The ten days’ rites should not be ignored and performed with the help of brahmins and priests.

This is one of the most important duties of a son according to Hindu philosophy.